JOIN OUR CREW FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE

Our scientific survey season runs from May to October. Each week, eight spots will be available on board for both researchers and volunteers. We invite anyone who has an interest in marine science to join our expeditions. Pack your bag and join us on board, not as a passenger, but as part of our research team. You don’t need any experience sailing or in science, just a positive spirit and a desire to learn. Artists, photographers, dreamers and doers are welcome!

What makes our expeditions stand out?

We believe anyone can be a changemaker. As part of our team, you will help us collect data we need to monitor the health of whales, dolphins and turtles around the Balearic Islands. During the day, we will sail in the beautiful azure waters of the Balearic Sea, on the lookout for marine life. At night, we moor in the natural shelter of the island of Cabrera, a unique natural reserve, or in the serene bays of Menorca. If you like sleeping under the stars and close encounters with marine life, this is the adventure for you. Our expeditions are unique and authentic, with the clear and specific objective of studying and conserving the ocean's natural and cultural treasures.

As a conservation organisation, we try and practice what we preach. Our crew cares wholeheartedly about the ocean environment and we try and live a clean, plastic-free lifestyle where possible. On-board, you won’t find any plastic bottles, excess packaging or shopping bags. We use high-quality watermaker to make fresh, pure water out at sea. Our ship is an ancient Norwegian ketch, built in 1910. A lot of the wood is still original, the interiors are also all wooden, decorated with beautiful carvings from our captain. It’s not only a working ship, it’s a home away form home.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

The Toftevaag is an inclusive ship. That's why we've carefully thought of a menu that satisfies all needs, including vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, low-GI and gluten-free foods. And of course, also for omnivores. And our ingredients come from local markets and organic farmers, all without packaging. In this way, over the years, we have managed to reduce our plastic consumption by 90%!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why sail with us?

Our laboratory is the open sea. We will track sea turtles, sperm whales and other great pelagic species to study the way marine ecosystems function. You will have the opportunity of supporting a great conservation programme while learning about life in the Mediterranean. In one week, you will be part of an adventure that combines cutting-edge science, teamwork, fun and friendship. All of the proceeds from the program help us fund our research and conservation programs. At the same time, they allow us to share our passion for marine life and exploration with the public.

Will I be expected to participate in the science?

All of our crew is expected to help out during survey time. This can include duties like spotting sea life, writing in the logbook, cooking, taking photos and helping with the sailing. No one will be asked to do anything they don’t want to do, but we encourage everyone to get stuck in and help out where they can. When the weather doesn't permit surveying, the expedition ship will turn into an open air museum to engage visiting families and kids about the dangers of marine litter and plastic pollution.

What will we discover?

The Balearic Basin is home to a rich variety of underwater and avian species. During your time on board, you will learn all about these animals and if you keep a sharp eye, you will be able to spot them. Some examples of the species we might encounter are bottlenose dolphins, pilot whales, sperm whales, cormorants, sea turtles and Risso’s dolphins, among others! Some of the activities we might carry out include the tagging of Carretta carretta, the loggerhead sea turtle. We will also be on the lookout for beautiful Balearic shearwaters and other amazing sea birds. Starting this summer, we will also be performing manta trawls, measuring the amount of microplastic particles in the sea.

I’m a university student. Can I get credits?

Yes. Contact us to find out more about our student program and discounts.

Do you offer discounts?

We offer a discount for volunteers who would like to stay for two weeks. We also offer discounts and intern opportunities for students.

How can I join?

Scroll down to our Survey Dates to find out about dates and see how many places are left. Book your spot directly online.

Where does my money go towards?

Your contribution will cover your food and room on-board and a week of sailing. Below is a chart that breaks down how we use each share to cover the survey costs. All our surveys contribute to the conservation and protection of biodiversity in the Mediterranean.